Why Are My Palm Tree's Bottom Leaves Turning Brown?

Identification

• Fusarium wilt is a fungal disease of palms caused by Fusarium oxysporum. Several species of the fungi affect various palms. Fusarium wilt is a vascular disease that causes wilt on palm foliage.

Symptoms

• Fusarium wilt infection is characterized by the gradual browning and yellowing of foliage starting from the lower leaves. As the disease progresses, the browning extends to the center and upper portion of the canopy. The discolored foliage does not fall off but remains on the tree. Affected trees usually die within a few months of infection.

Management

• Fusarium wilt has no cure, according to the University of California Extension. The best management strategy is to buy trees from reliable sources. Do not over water trees and avoid planting in heavy, poorly drained soil.